Comparing Desiree's Baby And The Story Of An Hour By Kate Chopin

Kate Chopin’s stories, “Desiree’s Baby” and “The Story of an Hour,” analyze the theme of the negative consequences of racism in multiple and different ways. Both stories are set in a specific time, the 19th century; therefore, the society was characterized by prejudices that led to racism. In both stories, Chopin analyzed the negative effects of racism on the society of the time and on the individuals. Chopin reveals the harsh reality of a society deeply rooted in racism and prejudice. Chopin’s stories remind us of the negative consequences of racism and societal expectations on both a personal and societal level. Kate Chopin’s literary works, “Desiree’s Baby” and “The Story of an Hour,” effectively illustrate the harmful effects of racism

Désirée and Armand were in love and they had a child; however, when they baby is born with dark skin, Armand accuses Desiree of being of mixed race. Despite her protest of innocence, Armand orders her and the baby to leave. “When he spoke to her, it was with averted eyes, from which the old love-light seemed to have gone out. He absented himself from home; and when there, avoided her presence and that of her child, without excuse. And the very spirit of Satan seemed suddenly to take hold of him in his dealings with the slaves. Désirée was miserable enough to die.” As the story progresses, it is revealed that it was Armand who was of mixed race and had been hiding his true heritage all along. In the end, Desiree and the baby are tragically killed, and Armand is left to suffer the consequences of his own racist beliefs. One aspect of racism is highlight in this story, which is that racism can blur the vision of a person’s reality. This is the case with Armand, who lost his mind when he discovered his son’s origins and pushed him away without giving it a second thought. In doing so, he lost the person he loved and his son, he lost his family. The story highlights the absurdity of racism and the fact that it is often based on false assumptions and

The initial reaction of Louise is strange; instead of being devastated, Louise begins to experience a sense of liberation and joy, realizing that she is now free from her husband’s oppressive presence: “She said it over and over under hte breath: “free, free, free!” The vacant stare and the look of terror that had followed it went from her eyes. They stayed keen and bright. Her pulses beat fast, and the coursing blood warmed and relaxed every inch of her body.” The author’s highlighted these types of feelings in order to underline a negative aspect of racism; see how black people fell oppressed during that time. The story also exposes the damaging effects of racism and how it can limit an individual’s freedom and happiness. Louise’s husband is not explicitly racist, but his dominance over her and their marriage represents the patriarchal and oppressive society of the time. Racism and sexism are intertwined, and Chopin’s story shows how they can lead to the suppression of women’s desires and